Across the Pond: Why (and How) Americans Are Buying Luxury Homes in London and the Home Counties
As a luxury property consultant based in London, I’ve witnessed a remarkable surge in interest from American buyers lately. These clients are drawn by more than Britain’s charming accents and afternoon tea; there are concrete reasons why wealthy Americans are increasingly investing in UK real estate, especially in London and its picturesque Home Counties. In this post, I’ll explore what’s fueling this transatlantic property trend and explain how Americans are making the move — all from my perspective as someone helping them every step of the way. By the end, you’ll see not only why U.S. buyers are flocking here, but also how we can assist you in navigating the process smoothly.
London Calling – A Magnet for American Buyers
London has always had global allure, but today it’s truly calling out to Americans. In fact, U.S. buyers have recently become the largest group of overseas purchasers in prime central London. According to Knight Frank, Americans made up about 11.6% of foreign buyers in London’s prime districts in late 2024, overtaking the once-dominant Chinese segment (8.1%) knightfrank.com. This marks a big jump from just a few years ago – Americans comprised only ~5.6% of overseas prime-market buyers in 2019 knightfrank.com. Clearly, something has changed, making London more attractive than ever to those from the States.
Upscale residential streets in prime London neighborhoods have become highly sought-after by American buyers. Desirable areas like Notting Hill, Chelsea, Kensington and St. John’s Wood – known for their elegant homes and vibrant culture – are seeing increased interest from U.S. house-hunters.
Why London? From my conversations with American clients, several factors keep coming up:
Familiarity and World-Class City Life: London offers the excitement of a major world capital without a language barrier. Its theatres, restaurants, and cultural institutions rival New York or LA, yet London also boasts a rich history and European charm that many Americans adore. As one estate agent put it, “London’s culture and global connectivity make it an ideal springboard to Europe and beyond.” theguardian.com Americans base themselves here knowing they can easily travel throughout Europe, while enjoying a cosmopolitan life at the center of it all.
Stable Investment & Safe Haven: In uncertain times, London property is seen as a relatively stable investment. A Rightmove property expert noted that some U.S. buyers view the UK as “a more stable investment opportunity,” and others are even contemplating a permanent move across the Atlantictheguardian.com. The United Kingdom’s strong property rights and rule of law give confidence that an asset in London will hold value long-term. This sense of safety – both financial and personal – attracts Americans who may feel uncertainty at home.
Political and Social Climate: Indeed, a notable number of affluent Americans are motivated by the political climate in the U.S. Over the past few years, polarising politics have driven some to seek a “plan B” abroad. Real estate firms have observed “politically motivated relocations – Americans who are seeking greater stability abroad.” theguardian.com In fact, many are explicitly looking for a refuge from domestic turbulence. A recent industry report described wealthy U.S. nationals “buying boltholes in London as they seek to escape Donald Trump’s America” abode2.com. (One headline even dubbed this trend “Super-Rich Americans Are Buying Up London” abode2.com!) Regardless of one’s politics, the appeal of an international sanctuary in times of unrest is understandable.
Strong Dollar, Better Deals: Beyond lifestyle and politics, currency exchange rates have handed Americans a huge advantage. The U.S. dollar has been very strong against the British pound in recent years, effectively making UK properties much cheaper for dollar buyers. Knight Frank calculates that, thanks to favourable exchange rates and recent price adjustments, American buyers enjoyed roughly a 38% “discount” on prime London home prices compared to 2014 knightfrank.com. In other words, a luxury flat in Chelsea or Mayfair might cost an American millions of dollars less today than it would have a decade ago. This currency edge, coupled with a softening in London’s luxury market after new tax measures, means savvy U.S. buyers see a chance to snap up trophy properties at a relative bargain news.bloombergtax.com.
Prestige and Education: London is home to top universities and schools, which can be a draw for families considering an overseas move. There’s also a certain prestige in owning a piece of London – whether it’s a historic townhouse in Belgravia or a sleek penthouse overlooking the Thames. For some Americans, purchasing a UK property is as much about the lifestyle and status as it is about financial investment.
It’s worth noting that this surge of American interest isn’t confined to one type of home. Americans are buying luxury apartments, classic townhouses, and even grand estates. For example, high-profile U.S. buyers like fashion designer Tom Ford have made headlines for acquiring prime London homes (he reportedly spent about £80 million on a Chelsea mansion in 2024) abode2.com. And it’s not just individuals – some U.S. companies and investment funds are also hunting for London real estate opportunities. All this contributes to Americans’ growing footprint in the London property scene.
Beyond London – The Allure of the Home Counties
While London is the first stop for many, American buyers are also enchanted by England’s Home Counties – the affluent green belt of counties surrounding London (such as Surrey, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Kent, and further afield the cotswolds). These areas offer idyllic English country living with the convenience of being a short drive or train ride from the capital. For Americans craving a bit more space, privacy, and pastoral charm without losing access to London’s amenities, the Home Counties are the perfect solution.
Interestingly, the English countryside has long held a special appeal for well-off Americans. (The Cotswolds, for instance, have even been nicknamed “the Hamptons of England” for their popularity with US second-home owners theguardian.com!) Lately, this interest in country living is extending across various regions. My colleagues and I have noted that it’s not only the Cotswolds catching Americans’ eyes now – some are open to lesser-known villages and estates across the South-East and beyond. A survey by a luxury agency found that American ultra-high-net-worth buyers have been seeking out exclusive homes in prime areas of West and Central London, and also looking for large estates in outer regions where they can enjoy more seclusion spearswms.com knightfrank.com.
Sprawling luxury homes like this are among the types of properties drawing American interest in the UK. Outside London, the Home Counties offer stately mansions, gated estates, and quaint villages – all within reach of the city, providing privacy and greenery that appeal to those craving a change from hectic U.S. cities.
Several factors explain why Americans are expanding their search to London’s outskirts and countryside:
Privacy and Space: After living in U.S. cities or suburbs, many Americans moving here are astonished by how much history and land you can get in England. In particular, high-profile Americans (think Hollywood actors, tech CEOs, etc.) appreciate the privacy offered by country manors or estates tucked away in quaint villages. As one country property expert noted, “Some Hollywood royalty have already been in touch, looking for privacy as their number one requirement – and that is something the UK countryside can give you.” knightfrank.com The Home Counties and other rural hotspots provide gated drives, large gardens, and a discrete lifestyle that’s hard to match elsewhere.
Family Lifestyle: These areas are home to top international schools (including American-style curricula), which is ideal for families relocating with kids. Towns like Cobham in Surrey or St. John’s Wood in north London (near the American School) have established expat communities. Living slightly outside the city can offer a more relaxed lifestyle – picture children attending excellent schools by day and weekends spent at country pubs or playing cricket at the village green. For Americans who cherish the idea of an English childhood experience for their kids, the Home Counties hold strong appeal.
Heritage and Natural Beauty: From storybook market towns to rolling hills and ancient woodlands, the areas around London are rich in scenery and heritage. Owning a period farmhouse in Oxfordshire or a Georgian manor in Kent isn’t just buying a home – it’s owning a piece of England’s story. This romantic notion resonates with many Americans. They love the idea of spending summers in a Kentish country house or having guests over to a Surrey estate that looks straight out of Downton Abbey. Such dream properties, once only seen in British TV imports, can become a reality for U.S. buyers willing to invest.
Value for Money (vs. Prime London): Simply put, one can often get more house for the money outside central London. Estates in the Home Counties, while still expensive, may offer larger acreage or grander features at a price that would fetch only a smaller apartment in Mayfair. Especially with the dollar’s strength, some Americans see the countryside as a bargain. This is one reason Scotland recently leapt ahead of London in online searches by U.S. house-hunters – prime Scottish cities or estates come at a lower price pointtheguardian.com. But for those who want proximity to London, the Home Counties strike a balance of relative value and convenience.
The bottom line is that Americans moving to the UK aren’t only circling within Zone 1 of London. They are widening their horizons, often seeking both a base in London and a retreat in the countryside. I’ve had clients purchase a chic pied-à-terre in the city for weekdays, then a roomy country house an hour outside London for weekends – the best of both worlds. With our guidance, they discover which locales best fit their lifestyle and investment goals.
How Americans Are Navigating the Move (The “How”)
You might be wondering: How are Americans actually pulling off these UK property purchases and relocations? What does the process involve, and what makes it different from buying a home in the States? From my experience, U.S. buyers face a learning curve – but with the right help, it’s entirely feasible. Here’s an overview of how Americans are making the leap across the pond to acquire homes here:
1. Increased Inquiries and Research: It often starts with online browsing and inquiries. Property portals like Rightmove have reported a surge in interest from U.S. house-hunters – inquiries from Americans about UK homes for sale hit an eight-year high in early 2025, up 19% from the year prior theguardian.com theguardian.com. Many Americans begin by researching neighborhoods and prices from afar. Some even plan exploratory trips: I’ve had clients who flew into London for a week just to tour areas and attend a few viewings, to get a feel before committing. The good news is that information is plentiful, and as they research, U.S. buyers quickly learn that the UK market offers both exciting opportunities and some new rules to navigate.
2. Engaging Expert Help: Almost all American buyers partner with experienced local professionals – and this is where my team comes in. The UK property system is quite different from the U.S. (for example, there’s no MLS, estate agents represent the seller, and the purchasing legal process involves solicitors and surveys). To avoid pitfalls, Americans are seeking guidance from UK real estate experts, lawyers, and financial advisers early on. In my work, I often start by clarifying key differences – like how stamp duty land tax works, or the fact that an offer isn’t legally binding until contracts are exchanged. Having a knowledgeable agent on the ground is invaluable to bridge these gaps. We assist American clients in everything from narrowing down areas, to shortlisting properties that meet their criteria, to negotiating offers and selecting trusted local solicitors for the closing process.
3. Financing and Currency Strategy: Another important step is arranging finances. Some Americans are cash buyers (especially at the high end), which simplifies things. But many do seek mortgages, often through private banks or international divisions of UK lenders that understand foreign income. There is no restriction on foreigners buying property in the UK, and non-UK citizens can obtain mortgages here getgoldenvisa.com, though it may require a larger down payment and additional documentation. American buyers also pay attention to exchange rates – some convert currency in stages or use forward contracts to lock in favorable rates. With the dollar’s recent strength, those who moved funds at the right moment found their budget effectively went much further in pounds sterlingknightfrank.com. Part of my role is to connect clients with banking contacts or currency specialists so they can maximize their exchange advantage and navigate any U.S./UK tax implications of moving money abroad.
4. Navigating Legal and Visa Hurdles: Purchasing property as a non-resident is fairly straightforward in the UK – you don’t need to be a citizen or have special status to buy real estate. However, if the goal is to move in and live long-term, Americans do need to consider immigration status. Some come on work visas (if they have a job transfer or UK employment), others on spousal visas, student visas, or newly created routes like the Innovator or Global Talent visa. A few ultra-wealthy individuals had used the now-closed Investor visa in the past. What we’re seeing now is a rise in Americans going as far as applying for UK citizenship or dual citizenship when eligible. In fact, Home Office data show that more Americans applied for UK citizenship last year than ever before – over 6,100 applications, a 40% year-on-year surge in late 2024 abode2.com. This suggests many are serious about making Britain a permanent home. I assist clients by referring them to qualified immigration lawyers and ensuring their property plans align with their visa status (for instance, if they plan to rent out a home until they move here full-time, we navigate those management details). It’s a holistic process: property and residency often go hand-in-hand for these transatlantic movers.
5. Closing the Deal and Settling In: Once the ideal property is found, American buyers typically fly in for the key moments – an in-person viewing of their top choice (if they haven’t already), and the closing itself (though it can be done remotely too). We coordinate closely with their solicitor (real estate attorney) to handle due diligence, surveys, and contracts. One difference Americans notice is the UK’s thorough conveyancing process – it may feel slow, but it ensures there are no nasty surprises with the title, local searches, etc. After contracts are exchanged and the sale completes, we don’t consider our job done. We often help our American clients with post-purchase needs: finding reputable decorators, getting them set up with utility accounts, maybe introducing them to neighbors or expat networks. If they’re new to the UK, even guidance on things like setting up a bank account, obtaining a UK driver’s license, or registering for healthcare is part of making them feel at home. The goal for us is a soft landing – turning what could be an overwhelming relocation into an exciting, supported adventure.
Throughout all these steps, a common thread is that Americans are relying on seasoned local knowledge to make their UK home purchase a success. And that’s exactly how we help.
Enhancing Your Luxury Home Journey with Juliette Byrne’s Architectural Interior Design Services
At Juliette Byrne, we don't just help you find a home; we guide you through the entire process, providing full-service design solutions for a seamless transition. Our team of talented designers specializes in listed buildings, navigating planning permissions, and managing complex renovations. Whether you're seeking a full turnkey service, FF&E fit-outs, or a bespoke design that reflects your personal style, we ensure that every detail is taken care of.
We collaborate with a range of trusted contractors, craftsmen, and suppliers, enabling us to deliver projects on time, to the highest standards, and within your vision. Our experience spans central London, the Home Counties, and even beyond into Europe, ensuring that wherever you choose to invest, we are there to guide you every step of the way.
In addition to offering architectural interior design services, our design studio is proudly based in the Chelsea Design Quarter, the heart of London's design industry. This prime location gives our clients access to a one-stop-shop experience, with all the showrooms and suppliers in close proximity — making it an ideal place for those short on time but seeking quality and efficiency.
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Guiding You Home – We’re Here to Help
From the glitzy apartments of London to the tranquil lanes of Surrey, it’s easy to see why Americans are increasingly falling in love with UK properties. The why comes down to a mix of opportunity and lifestyle: a strong dollar, stable investments, political peace of mind, and the unique allure of British culture and countryside. The how boils down to having the right guidance to navigate a different real estate system and to handle the logistics of an international move.
Our team’s mission is to make that journey as smooth as possible. We have helped numerous American clients find their dream homes in London and the Home Counties, and we understand the questions and challenges that can arise. With expert advice, on-the-ground support, and a network of trusted professionals, we ensure you won’t have to figure it all out alone.
If you’re an American considering a move to the UK – whether you’re eyeing a chic London penthouse or a country manor house – Juliette and her team are here to help you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out to discuss your goals, and we can tailor a plan to turn your transatlantic real estate dreams into reality. After all, helping clients start their new chapter in England is not just our job – it’s our passion.
Sources: Supporting insights and statistics were drawn from reputable luxury property sources and news outlets, including Knight Frank research knightfrank.com knightfrank.com, The Guardian theguardian.com theguardian.com, Bloomberg news.bloombergtax.com, and industry reports in Abode2 abode2.com abode2.com and Spear’s Wealth Management knightfrank.com. These sources confirm the trends we’re seeing on the ground: Americans are truly making themselves at home in the UK’s prime property market – and doing so in greater numbers than we’ve seen in years.